King James Version
What Does Numbers 26:24 Mean?
“Of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites: of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites.”
Numbers 26:24 · KJV
Context
22
These are the families of Judah according to those that were numbered of them, threescore and sixteen thousand and five hundred.
23
Of the sons of Issachar after their families: of Tola, the family of the Tolaites: of Pua, the family of the Punites:
24
Of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites: of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites.
25
These are the families of Issachar according to those that were numbered of them, threescore and four thousand and three hundred.
26
Of the sons of Zebulun after their families: of Sered, the family of the Sardites: of Elon, the family of the Elonites: of Jahleel, the family of the Jahleelites.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryOf Jashub, the family of the Jashubites—The continuation of Issachar's four clans concludes with Jashub (יָשׁוּב, 'he will return' or 'he turns back') and Shimron (שִׁמְרוֹן, 'watch-height' or 'guardian'). The name Jashub appears as 'Job' in Genesis 46:13 (Hebrew יוֹב, Yōḇ), showing textual variations in the genealogical transmission. Shimron suggests vigilance, appropriate for a tribe noted for discernment.
Issachar's four-clan structure (smaller than most tribes) reflects their compact but fertile territorial allotment. The phrase mishpachah (family) appears in construct form (mishpachaṯ), emphasizing the genitive relationship—literally 'the family of the Jashubites,' marking clan membership and inheritance rights.
Issachar's four-clan structure (smaller than most tribes) reflects their compact but fertile territorial allotment. The phrase mishpachah (family) appears in construct form (mishpachaṯ), emphasizing the genitive relationship—literally 'the family of the Jashubites,' marking clan membership and inheritance rights.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Issachar's clans settled in Lower Galilee and the Jezreel Valley, controlling crucial trade routes between Egypt and Mesopotamia. The city of Shimron (Joshua 11:1) became a Canaanite stronghold defeated by Joshua. This strategic location gave Issachar economic influence despite modest military strength, fulfilling the 'burden-bearing' aspect of Jacob's blessing.
Reflection Questions
- What does the name variation (Job/Jashub) in genealogical records teach about the human element in biblical transmission without undermining Scripture's divine authority?
- How does Issachar's strategic location at trade route crossroads picture the church's call to engage culture while maintaining covenant distinctiveness?
- In what ways might Shimron ('watch-height') and the tribe's gift of discernment equip God's people to be watchmen in spiritually confused times?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsמִשְׁפַּ֖חַת2 of 6
“the family”
H4940a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת5 of 6
“the family”
H4940a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 26:24 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 26:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge